Mandela property bust: 5 suspects connected to recovery of hijacked car to appear in court

JOHANNESBURG - Five suspects will appear in the Johannesburg Magistrates Court on Friday concerning the recovery of a hijacked vehicle at the property of former President Nelson Mandela.  

They were all arrested at Mandela’s family Houghton property in Johannesburg on Wednesday.  

Among those arrested is one of Madiba’s grandsons, a woman, and three other men.  

A grandson of Mandela will appear alongside three other men and a woman.  

While they have all been arrested in connection with a vehicle hijacking in Norwood, in the early hours of Wednesday morning, alternative charges may be added.  

Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Xolani Fihla said they received information about the whereabouts of a vehicle hijacked from an Uber driver. 

“Officers proceeded to a residence in Houghton, previously owned by former President Nelson Mandela. Upon entering the property, officers recovered the hijacked vehicle and apprehended five individuals: four males and one female.”  

He said the woman had been renting the property.  

“A subsequent search of the premises resulted in the recovery of one unlicensed firearm. Preliminary information suggests that the female occupant is renting the property and is acquainted with the three male suspects.”  

Police seized dozens of drug paraphernalia and stolen goods at the premises as well.